Navigation Buoy

Navigation Buoys, also known as NavBuoys or simply Buoys, are devices used to regulate space traffic in star systems. Most commonly they are used to denote the no-FTL zones around planets and space stations. They are also located at the most used entry and exit routes on the edges of star systems. Buoys use small thrusters mounted on every side to maintain their position.

Operations

Buoys are connected to the closest space traffic control station as well as to each other through FTL links. Each buoy has an AI installed in it, which is responsible for sending messages to starships. Buoys can used for communication between ships, planets or stations when the use of the communication network is impossible.

Apart from denoting no-FTL zones, buoys located around stations and planets are used to denote approach routes. Starships are supposed to turn off their FTL drive, align with buoy assigned by traffic control and approach planet or station on the most straight path from the buoy as possible.

Access & Availability

Common, but the production is controlled by the government

Discovery

2200